Pulmonary Fibrosis2025-07-08T12:37:59+01:00

Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary Fibrosis is a chronic lung condition where scar tissue forms in the lungs, making it harder to breathe. Because symptoms can be subtle at first, lung function testing is critical for early detection and slowing progression.

Pulmonary Fibrosis Overview

Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Causes

In many cases, the cause is unknown (idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, or IPF), but known triggers include:

  • Long-term exposure to environmental toxins (e.g., asbestos, silica dust, metal dust)
  • Certain medications or radiation therapy
  • Autoimmune conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma)
  • Chronic lung infections
  • Genetic predisposition

Symptoms

Often gradual and may be mistaken for other conditions:

  • Shortness of breath, especially during activity
  • Dry, persistent cough
  • Fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Clubbing (widening) of fingers or toes
  • Chest discomfort

Risk Factors

Most common in people over 50

  • Increases risk significantly
  • Smokers are more likely to develop several types of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Long-term exposure to:

  • Asbestos
  • Silica dust
  • Coal dust
  • Grain dust
  • Metal dust
  • Animal droppings or mould

Long-term use or high doses of:

  • Chemotherapy drugs (e.g., bleomycin, methotrexate)
  • Some antibiotics (e.g., nitrofurantoin)
  • Heart medications (e.g., amiodarone)

History of viral infections (like Epstein-Barr, hepatitis C) may contribute to risk

  • Having a family member with pulmonary fibrosis increases your risk
  • Certain genetic mutations have been linked to familial pulmonary fibrosis

Conditions like:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Scleroderma
  • Lupus

Sometimes, the cause is unknown (idiopathic), but many of the above factors may still play a role

Can Pulmonary Fibrosis be prevented?

Pulmonary fibrosis cannot always be fully prevented, especially in cases where the cause is unknown (idiopathic), but there are several ways to reduce your risk or slow its progression

Avoid Smoking – Don’t smoke and avoid second-hand smoke. Smoking damages lung tissue and increases the risk of fibrosis
Limit Exposure to Pollutants- Use protective gear if exposed to dust, fumes and chemicals. Ensure proper ventilation when working with strong household or industrial substances
Review Medications – Talk to your doctor about medications that may affect your lungs. Avoid long-term use of drugs known to cause lung scarring unless absolutely necessary
Prevent Infections – Stay up to date on vaccines (flu, COVID-19, pneumonia). Practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with people who are sick
Know your Family History- Inform your doctor if pulmonary fibrosis runs in your family. Consider genetic counselling if multiple relatives are affected
Manage Autoimmune Diseases– Treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or scleroderma early. Work with a rheumatologist to reduce inflammation and prevent lung complications

How Chequers can help Diagnose and Treat

Lung Function Test

Inhalation

Inhalation

A faster, effective diagnosis

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